Raul Ivan

Raúl is a 45 year old man. He grew up in a poor household, but with the support of his family he was able to study at Secondary School. This knowledge has helped him support himself and gain experience in different fields. He is married to Maria, who is 47 years old. She takes care of the house and the five children they have, aged 18, 17, 14, 6 and 2 years old. Four of them are studying in public schools in order to one day become professionals.

They live together in Latacunga, one of the most important cities in the Andes mountain region of Ecuador. It has experienced marked steps forward which has increased it's growth. The manufacturing, flower, farming and livestock industries have all gained in productivity. Local business has developed in a significant manner thanks to the entrepreneurship of its citizens who have created opportunities and work to make this a reality.

Raúl has worked independently in the manufacturing of cement blocks for twenty years now, starting just after he got married. As his parents taught him this work when he was very young he started as an expert in the field. He puts in 8 to 10 hours at work without any major complications. He enjoys his work in spite of having to mix the material at his house as he does not have his own mixing machine. Raul dreams of having his children establish their own micro-businesses in the future so they can all properly support their families.

Raúl is requesting this loan to buy to buy cement and other materials wholesale, to make a larger number of blocks. Then his income will be greater and he will be able to offer his wife and children a more stable economic situation and a higher standard of living and a good education.

Raúl looked for financial help in many places and found the help he needs with Fundación Alternativa, who believe in him and his work. Fundación Alternativa will help him obtain the money and tools he needs to manage his business well.

Additional Information

About Fundación Alternativa

Fundación Alternativa encourages entrepreneurship and provides sustainable financial and non-financial services that promote social and economic development in Ecuador. The organization focuses on serving poor and excluded populations through analysis of clients' living conditions and by providing business training and other support services in urban, rural and marginalized parts of the country.